Peasant Meaning and Definition
Peasant
Pronunciation
/ˈpiːznt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A member of a class of people who work on the land, typically as farm laborers or small-scale farmers, often in a feudal or subservient position.
Examples
- The peasant class in medieval Europe was heavily taxed and required to work long hours.
- In some countries, peasants still rely on manual labor to cultivate their land.
Synonyms
- Farmer
- Laborer
Antonyms
- Landowner
- Merchant
Additional Information
Peasants have historically faced significant social and economic challenges, including poverty, poor working conditions, and limited access to education and resources. However, many peasants have also played a crucial role in maintaining traditional agriculture and preserving local cultures.
Peasantries have also been associated with various social and economic movements throughout history, such as the peasant uprisings of medieval Europe and the rural revolts of 19th-century America.
Today, the term “peasant” is often used in a broader sense to refer to any person who works on the land or relies on agriculture as a primary means of subsistence.
Etymology
The word “peasant” comes from the Old French term “paisant,” which was derived from the Latin “paesantere” or “rusticus,” meaning “of or relating to the countryside.” Over time, the term evolved to refer specifically to a member of the rural working class.
Usage Notes
The word “peasant” should be used with care and sensitivity, especially in contexts where it may be perceived as derogatory or patronizing. In modern language, it is generally preferred to use more neutral terms, such as “farmer” or “rural worker,” to refer to individuals engaged in agriculture or related activities.
Cultural References
The term “peasant” has appeared in various literary and artistic works, including the novels of Honoré de Balzac and the paintings of Pieter Bruegel the Elder. In popular culture, the image of the peasant has been romanticized or caricatured in films, such as “The Three Wise Fools” and “The Barber of Seville.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Peasant’s revolt” – a term used to describe a spontaneous uprising or rebellion by a group of peasants or rural workers.
- “Peasant’s life” – a phrase used to describe a simple, rustic, or unpretentious way of living.
Related Words or Phrases
- Farmer
- Laborer
- Landowner
- Serf
Collocations
- Peasant farmer
- Rural peasant
- Peasant community
Frequency of Use
The word “peasant” is relatively rare in modern language, especially in informal or conversational contexts. However, it continues to be used in academic, literary, and historical discussions of rural societies and agrarian economies.
Common Misspellings
- Peasent
- Peasen
- Peasint